David Bailey brings instant pass-rush juice to the Jets, but the former Texas Tech star’s run defense is already driving draft debate.
David Bailey gave Texas Tech football a major NFL Draft headline when the New York Jets selected him with the No. 2 overall pick.
Now comes the debate: did New York take the safest impact pass rusher, or did it pass on a bigger long-term swing?
Bailey entered the 2026 NFL Draft as one of the most polished edge defenders available, and that’s exactly why the Jets liked him.
He’s expected to bring immediate pressure off the edge, especially against offensive tackles who struggle with speed and technique.
For Texas Tech, it’s another huge moment for the program.
Producing a top-two NFL pick gives the Red Raiders a major recruiting and development win, especially at a premium position.
Still, the pick hasn’t escaped criticism. CBS Sports analyst Mike Renner gave the Jets a “C-” for choosing Bailey, questioning whether New York added a player too similar to Will McDonald.
The concern is simple: Bailey can rush the passer, but his run defense still needs growth.
That matters because the Jets were one of the NFL’s worst teams against the run in 2025, allowing 139.5 rushing yards per game.
Some evaluators believed Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese would’ve better addressed that weakness with his physicality and tackling reliability.
But Bailey wasn’t drafted to be a finished product in every area. He was drafted because pass rush changes games, and the Jets clearly believe his best traits can translate quickly.
The key will be development. If Bailey improves setting the edge and holding up against the run, New York may have landed a franchise defender. If not, critics will keep pointing back to Reese.
Either way, Texas Tech has its newest NFL headliner. Bailey’s ceiling in New York is now one of the most fascinating rookie storylines of the season.